A side lying massage would be recommended with a pillow under
the right side to avoid supine Hypotensive syndrome through
compression of the inferior vena cava, providing a general relaxing
massage addressing sore muscle groups, increasing circulation and
lymph movement and skin hydration as well as increasing digestion
and respiration. Cold application could be used to reduce
discomfort. The most common techniques are Swedish massage,
Reflexology, Shiatsu, lymphatic drainage and Lomi Lomi to name a
few. Precautions would include to take care working around
the ankles and web of the hands, no abdominal massage, no pressure
on the abdominal aorta, no pressure to the inferior vena cava,
watch for edema in the ankles, nausea, providing excessive heat
through technique or hydrotherapy so that the mother and baby do
not heat up too quickly. Care should also be taken getting on
and off the table, ensuring that the mother is comfortably placed
on the table with lots of pillows for support and that no deep
tissue work is done in the first trimester.